Weather Forecast -- 5:30 AM -- July 18, 2013

Many of the affected areas received up to 6 inches of rain earlier Thursday, and 2-4 additional inches of rain were possible, the National Weather Service said.

A flash flood warning was also issued for Miami Beach as the National Weather Service warned that saturated ground from previous rains would create flooding in poor drainage areas. It was later cancelled and low tide conditions spared the beach from heavy flooding.

Heavy Rain and Flooding in South Florida This Week

Still, the heavy rainmaking system above Miami Beach appeared to leave more residents living in the water than by it.

Sedgh, owner of the Food Store USA convenience shop off Alton Road, said that business has unfortunately been slow every day too, and especially at night.

"Nobody at this time of the day can come inside," he said.

Several streets east of Alton were underwater well into Thursday night. Parts of the Sunset Harbor area were soaked as well.

Those heading to the beach were in for a wait Thursday afternoon. Traffic was backed up along the Midtown Miami end of Biscayne Boulevard, and further south, drivers abandoned cars to seek out higher and drier ground.

"It's one of those characteristics of Miami and it's cool for a little bit, and then it gets old after, like, two hours," Cassidy Smith said while walking home in the rain.

The downpours also affected downtown Miami, Hialeah and Coral Gables, among other places.

Meanwhile, the City of Doral was distributing sandbags to residents in anticipation of heavy rain. The sand bags will be distributed between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at JC Bermudez Park at 3000 Northwest 87th Avenue. Proof of residency is required.